Breast augmentation is the number one performed cosmetic surgery procedure in the United States. Some women would like larger
breast but do not want
breast implants. According to a
study released today by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons expansion of the breast tissue prior to surgery followed by injection of the patient’s own fat provides a safe and effective alternative to breast implant surgery for breast augmentation, reports a study in the May issue of
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). The method which requires using a special suction pump bra device for a few weeks prior to surgery to “pre- expand” breasts—provides greater augmentation than fat transfer performed by itself, according to the new report.
Breast Augmentation Alternatives
The lead author was ASPS Member Surgeon Roger K. Khouri, MD of Florida International University and Miami Breast Center, Key Biscayne, Fla. The technique is a modification of the increasingly popular injection of the patient’s own fat. In this technique, fat obtained by liposuction from one part of the body—for example, the thighs—is transferred for use in breast augmentation and reshaping. Traditionally much of the fat was absorbed into the body and patients did not see a measurable difference. This new method combines the tissue expansion device and then the introduction of the patient’s fat. It is reported to have worked better, and the average increase was 230 cc after a year with the combination procedure compared with only 130 cc using fat alone. Patient should note that the average implant size is considerably larger (375 cc).
Breast Augmentation Options
While the idea of using a patient’s own fat and distributing it to a desirable area instead of in undesirable area is extremely appealing patients must do their research and be cautious before investing in that transfer procedures.
Dr. Seify explains to his
patientsthat patients choosing
breastaugmentation are typically seeking not just larger breast but better proportion, tone, and aesthetic appearance. Many patients, especially those who have had children desire a
breastlift as well as fullness along the cleavage line. Before patients consider that injections for breast augmentation they must first be realistic about their expectations for breast augmentation procedures. Fat injections as well as
breastimplantshave limitations and patients should do extensive research prior to deciding which option is best for them. As an ASPS board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Seify remains involved in state-of-the-art methods at they become available for both reconstructive as well as cosmetic plastic surgery. Dr Seify’s practice is one of the centers nationwide used in the clinical study that Dr. Khouri initiated many years ago. This allows Dr. Seify to make the best individualized recommendations based on the patient’s desires, expectations, and overall health.
